Sleep is Essential

Sleep is such a vital component of our lives. During sleep your body heals and restores itself and you’re able to have a bit more pep in your step the next day.

When you have a thyroid disease, however, sleep can be the farthest thing from your mind! Think about it, one minute you can barely keep your head up because you’re exhausted, but when it’s time to go to bed, suddenly you want to want a marathon and plan a month’s vacation at midnight! Five hours later, you’re still awake and you’re supposed to be up at 5am (basically you didn’t sleep…at all).

So HOW do I get more sleep?

Calm Yourself

It is really important to find ways to calm yourself so that you can truly rest. Remember how I talked about stress? Take baby steps to minimize it. Try to unwind at least an hour before bed. Whenever I’ve been working and I jump right in bed, I can’t fall asleep right away. I have also tried to reduce electronics. Again, another thing that can be difficult as I try to read when I can’t sleep. A good old fashioned book can do the trick here.

Where Are You?

Think about your surroundings. Try to limit the amount of light in your room. I know that sometimes you can be really hot or really cold, but lean towards the cooler side in your room when you sleep. Drink something warm or a non-caffeinated tea (that’s safe for you of course).

I remember the days of insomnia. It’s so draining when you are exhausted but can’t sleep. If you can, involve your loved ones or a trusted friend. Not everyone is going to understand your struggle, which is why it’s super important to create a support system for yourself.

These tips may help:

Try stretching an hour before bed to help you relax.

Don’t drink too much before bed. Try to get your water intake in earlier in the day.

Don’t work in your bed, it’ll become difficult for you to fall asleep.